Professional Skills Tests with Learn Direct

All applicants must have passed the literacy and numeracy professional skills test before starting their training with us in September.

The numeracy and literacy skills tests:

cover the core skills that teachers need to fulfil their professional role in schools, rather than the subject knowledge required for teaching. This is to ensure all teachers are competent in numeracy and literacy, regardless of their specialism;

do not replace the GCSE grade C equivalence entry requirement in both subjects

are set in the context of the professional role of a teacher; all questions use real data and information which teachers are likely to encounter;

are computerised and can be taken at one of the test centres around the country

For more information on these tests: frequently asked questions, how to prepare for the tests, links to practice papers etc, please click here

Recent change to government policy: Since 12th February 2018, there is no limit on the number of times you can sit each test and the first three attempts are free of charge. The previous two year 'lock out period' after failing the tests three times, has also been lifted, enabling previous applicants to retake the tests as soon as they are ready.

We strongly urge you to make use of the practice tests that are available as this will enable you to familiarise yourself with the types of questions, the time allowed and how to use the online system, which will all help to maximise your chances of success.